I can't afford "me time"

So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy, complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind. Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. (Philippians 2:1-11 ESV)

"Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others."

These two sentences could not be more opposing to the world we live in today or the messages our brains are fed by the second. 

Humility. Our flesh rails against her. The world despises her. True treasure and joy is found in her. Christ's life is the ultimate example of humility. The King and Creator of all, left heaven to be poured out to the point of death and then life. 

As a 29 year old woman, wife, mom that lives in suburbia, I am constantly told through my flesh and the world "you just need more 'me' time", as well as "do something for yourself". Our culture is saturated with these messages. I hear it just as much in the church as in the world. It's a sneaky lie that we have bought into. Those messages are directly opposing to scripture and the life of Jesus. 

The truth is our lives should be poured out just like Christ's, completely humbled to the service of The Lord Jesus, serving and loving our brothers and sisters, dedicated to the church, whatever the cost. I can hear some that would say "yes, but you must take time for yourself." My response to that is this: Jesus retreated to be with the Father, to rest and hear from God. He didn't go to have "me time". For the believer, "Me time" will leave you just as empty and burned out than you were before. We don't need more "me time", we need more "Jesus time" and no one seems to want to say that. We want to have our cake and eat it to. We want to be a "Christian" but don't want the sacrifices that come with it. I have lived both and I will testify that I have never felt more refreshed, exhilarated and alive than when I am living sacrificially. Whether that is changing diapers, shepherding hearts, cooking meals, scrubbing toilets, watching kids or staying up late talking to a friend in need of encouragement. I know this truth. I've lived this truth and yet my flesh still fights against living sacrificially. It's never easy, but the reward is more of Him and abundant joy.

The Christian will not find rest in 'me time', vacations or hobbies. True rest is found in Christ alone. Sitting at the feet of our beloved King. His Spirit gives life, rest, peace and joy no matter how chaotic the circumstances. 

What would the church look like if we all laid down our possessions, time and strength at the feet of Jesus and served the way the King did? What if we woke up each day pursuing the heart of Jesus in hunting ways to put others before ourselves. Even when we are driving down the road in traffic (Lord help us all). We are called to a life of servant-hood. We must truly die to ourselves, our agendas and live for Him. The promise for those who die with Him, will be raised with Him. He is worth it all. 

Momma's, I know it's hard. The days are long, the laundry is mountainous, the needs are endless. But believe me when I say, no amount of trips to the spa (although nice) will give you the strength you need in order to live out the ministry as "Mom". The call to shepherd these little hearts is a high calling. It is Kingdom work and it matters! The Lord is faithful to provide us the wisdom and strength to minister to these little disciples! But make no mistake, it is found in him alone. So if you are worn out and burned out, lacking joy in parenthood, let me encourage you to say no to 'me time' and say yes to 'Jesus time'. Press into the Father and he will renew your strength! 

Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain. Unless the Lord watches over the city, the watchman stays awake in vain. It is in vain that you rise up early and go late to rest, eating the bread of anxious toil; for he gives to his beloved sleep. Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one’s youth. Blessed is the man who fills his quiver with them! He shall not be put to shame when he speaks with his enemies in the gate. (Psalm 127:1-5 ESV)